United Arab Emirates Payroll Guide

Q: How does payroll work in the UAE?

There are no employer or employee tax contributions for expats in the UAE. This makes it an extremely attractive place to work and hire. For UAE nationals, there is a minimum wage, determined by their level of education, of no lower than 3000AED per month.

Q: What are the general employment rules?

The standard working week is from Sunday to Thursday with full time employment considered as 8 hours per day. These hours can vary depending on industry and holidays. If an employee has been employed for over a year they will be eligible for 30 days’ paid leave per year. There are also 14 public holidays.

Q: What about dismissing an employee?

To dismiss an employee in the UAE requires a minimum notice period of 30 days. However, under DIFC law the notice period will extend dramatically if the length of service is over 5 years. Pay in lieu of notice is allowed in both instances, with the severance payment also determined by length of service, up to a maximum of 2 years’ salary. If for some reason the termination is not acknowledged by UAE law, the employee could potentially claim an additional compensation of up to 3 months’ salary.

Hire employees in United Arab Emirates

Currency

UAE Dirham (AED)

Population

9,890,400

Capital

Abu Dhabi

Official language(s)

Arabic

Date format

dd/mm/yyyy

Fiscal year

1 January - 31 December

Why use PeoplePay?

Guaranteed Compliance

Robust, compliant payroll and hiring supported by a dedicated Account Manager.

Local Expertise

Avoid international payroll and hiring pitfalls including language barriers, regulations and employment laws.

Lower Costs

Reduced administration, no need for an in-country team, and consolidated, outsourced payroll.

United Arab Emirates Payroll

Get peace of mind with a streamlined, fully-managed payroll solution for 1+ employees.

United Arab Emirates HR

Helping you hire compliantly, steering you through the local HR laws and regulations.

United Arab Emirates Payments

Consolidated, one-wire transfers to cover your entire global workforce – at competitive rates.

United Arab Emirates Payroll & HR Solutions

PeoplePay Global are here to assist with all your Payroll and HR requirements in United Arab Emirates

In-Country Employment Contracts

Creation of locally-compliant Emirian employment agreements, ensuring you and your employees are protected in-country. Our experts in the United Arab Emirates will create your bespoke agreement.

Payroll Processing

With global knowledge and local proficiency, we provide a fully-managed payroll solution that handles all the complex tasks, leaving you to focus on your business.

Tax and Labor Law

the United Arab Emirates’s complex legislation can be daunting. Our in-country specialists are an extended member of your team, steering you safely through tax and labor law.

Regulatory Compliance

Our in-country professionals provide a wealth of experience and expertise in Payroll & HR compliance, ensuring your venture complies with ever-changing legislation.

Start-Up Implementation

We’ll ensure you’re operational promptly in accordance with local law, advising on the best route for your business, whether it’s via a legal entity or foreign registration.

Declarations and Audits

Our local specialists will manage and submit annual declarations on your behalf, guaranteeing accurate and prompt reporting to the authorities and also providing support for audits.

To discuss your individual needs get in touch today

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Frequently Asked Questions